Chinese ancient architecture is a significant component of cultural heritage, embodying rich historical and cultural values. However, visitors often find it challenging to fully understand these profound cultural characteristics during their tours. To address this issue, we launch ARitecture, an interactive application based on Augmented Reality (AR) designed specifically for the Chinese landmark building, the Yellow Crane Tower. This AR application integrates the legend and cultural context of the Yellow Crane Tower, offering an immersive multi-sensory experience that enhances visitors’ understanding and engagement. Grounded in the framework of experiential learning theory, this study explores how AR technology can stimulate visitors’ cognitive engagement and emotional involvement. To assess the effectiveness and utility of our approach, we conducted a user study (n = 16) comparing the effects of adopting AR-enhanced experience with traditional non-AR methods. The findings indicate that participants adopting the ARitecture application exhibited higher levels of satisfaction and interactive engagement, significantly improving their comprehension and retention of cultural content. This suggests that AR technology can effectively bridge historical heritage with digital experiences, offering innovative pathways for cultural education and preservation.